A public health expert has warned of an increase in blood sucking flies with a bite which can leave victims with serious side effects.

The hot weather is known to bring the bugs out which live near water and give a particularly nasty and painful bite.

Some of the side effects include blistering, fever and a swollen groin.

The Blandford fly normally bites ankles and legs as they fly low to the ground and they are found to be most common between May and June.

Karen Wright, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire, told Gloucestershire Live: “As the weather starts to get warmer, it is likely that we will see more cases of Blandford fly bites across the country.

The Blandford fly

“We encourage people to take precautions if they’re out and about on our rivers and streams, especially over the forthcoming bank holiday weekend, by covering up and using a good quality insect repellent.

"If you do get bitten, it can often feel very uncomfortable with swelling, blistering, joint pain and sometimes a high temperature. However, there’s normally no need to visit a GP.

“If you do feel unwell after a bite, please call NHS 111 or visit your local pharmacy for advice on how to ease your discomfort. For the majority of people, the symptoms will only last a few days before clearing up.”

What is a Blandford fly?

The fly usually strikes near to rivers or streams

It got its name after an outbreak of residents being bitten around Blandford in Dorset in the 1960s and 1970s

What to do if you get bitten?

Blisters caused by a Blandford fly bite

Anyone who is bitten should clean the bite area and dry it gently

Do not under any circumstances scratch the bite, as it could become infected

Apply a cold compress or calamine lotion to cool it down, but don't use antihistamine creams as they can sometimes cause skin reactions

Cover large blisters with a dry dressing, and rest with your feet supported on a stool if you are bitten on your legs or ankles

Swelling often lasts for days, so it's important to reduce the pressure by lifting the affected area